HOMEMADE CAKE POPS

I’m so excited to show you how to make homemade cake pops! There’s just something fun about a bite-sized ball of cake coated in chocolate and served on a lollipop stick.

Cake pops are one of my favorite desserts—they’re delicious, customizable, and much more budget-friendly to make at home.

Looking for something new to serve at birthdays, parties, baby showers, or special occasions? These adorable treats will wow your friends and family while showing off your baking skills.

Why give a bouquet of flowers when you can gift a bouquet of cake pops instead? If I can do it, so can you—let’s get baking! Love cake? Be sure to check out my other cake recipes!

EQUIPMENT

  • Treat sticks
  • Styrofoam block or cake pop stand
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon
  • Plastic bags
  • Hand mixer (optional)
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking tray or plate

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 box of cake mix (plus required ingredients listed on the box) or your favorite homemade cake recipe
  • 1/3 cup (approx.) of frosting (any flavor)
  • Candiquik, candy melts, or melted chocolate

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Bake the Cake:
    Prepare your favorite cake using a boxed mix or homemade recipe. Let it cool completely before moving to the next step.
  • Crumble the Cake:
    Break the cake into fine crumbs by rubbing it between your hands, placing it in a plastic bag and crushing it, or using a mixer with a paddle attachment.
  • Mix in Frosting:
    Add about one heaping tablespoon (approx. 35g) of frosting at a time, mixing it into the crumbs until the consistency is like play dough. If using a whole cake, you’ll likely need around 1/3 cup of frosting. Mix with clean hands, gloves, or a mixer until well combined.
  • Form Cake Balls:
    Scoop out a tablespoon-sized portion of the mixture, knead it slightly in your hand, then roll it into a smooth ball. Place the cake balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Melt Chocolate:
    Melt candiquik, candy melts, or chocolate chips using a microwave or double boiler. If microwaving, heat in short bursts—use the defrost setting in 45-second intervals or high power in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until fully melted.
  • Attach Treat Sticks:
    Dip a treat stick about ¾ of an inch into the melted chocolate, then insert it into a cake ball about the same distance. Avoid pushing it all the way through. Smooth out any excess chocolate with your finger.
  • Chill the Cake Pops:
    Place the cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to firm up.
  • Dip the Cake Pops:
    Melt more chocolate, then transfer it to a small bowl or narrow glass. Dip each cake pop, using a spoon if needed to ensure full coverage. Rotate the pop and gently tap the stick to let excess chocolate drip off, creating a smooth finish.
  • Set the Chocolate:
    Place the coated cake pops back into the styrofoam block or stand. If using traditional chocolate, refrigerate for a few minutes to help the coating set.
  • Decorate:
    Once set, decorate your cake pops as desired! Drizzle with melted chocolate using a small piping bag or snipped plastic bag. Add sprinkles, nuts, or candy before the coating fully hardens.

Enjoy your homemade cake pops—perfect for birthdays, parties, or as a fun, edible gift! 

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